Ex-service Personnel

Data from a range of support organisations indicate that many ex-service personnel can be vulnerable to a range of health and social inequalities, for example homelessness or mental health problems such as depression and stress. They can have difficulty finding employment, claiming benefits and with social isolation.

Health concerns regarding ex-service personnel
Research has found that depression is a more common mental health condition than post-traumatic stress disorder in UK ex-service personnel. Only about half of those who have a diagnosis are seeking help currently, mainly from their GP. Only a small number of individuals seek help from specialists.
A considerable number of people leaving the forces or finishing a posting find it difficult reintegrating into their communities and to civilian life in general. In Glasgow, research showed that armed forces veterans made up more than 1 in 10 of the homeless population in the city.

Key Resources
A number of national organisations provide a range of information, advice and practical support including the Ministry of Defence, Soldiers, Sailors, Airmen and Families Association and Veterans Scotland.
Local councils will provide housing support and advice.

And a wide number of national and local charities also offer specialist support